Zerkanite

Properties

Material Characteristics

A mineral with pitch black colour. It often has a high lustre, reflecting light in many different directions. It is also very heavy, proportionally triple the weight of steel.

Geology & Geography

The mineral is exclusively found in the lands of Kilormak, and is thought to originate from the plane Carceri.

History & Usage

History

The mineral was first discovered by the Seldonian Halflings sometime in the 8th century in the lands of Kilormak. With some experimentation they discovered that it was by far the hardest material that could be made into a weapon, although extremely heavy. Since then it has been used primarily in the slaying of extraordinary beasts, such as dragons.

Refinement

Refining this metal is difficult, requiring ridiculous levels of heat to melt, however once melted it tends to stay that way for some time. Is often mixed with steel to make it easier to work with. The hardest way to refine it is to mix it with mithril which is extremely hard to form Galatrium, however has been known to create the greatest weapons in history.

Distribution

Trade & Market

The Seldonians are the only people able to mine it, thus has a monopoly on the material. Because of this prices for it are ridiculously high for the average consumer, while much of it is reserved for officials or international trade.

Law & Regulation

Due to the rarity of the material, there is a quota/percentage of all mined Zerkanite that goes to the crown for use and trade. Some are given to special nobles and merchants to sell to the public.

Type

Metal

Melting / Freezing Point

2300 C